The green hills of Tindiret Sub-County glisten under the morning sun as the end-of-year wind sweeps through the valleys and escarpments.
The landscape reflects not only natural beauty but also the resilience and pride of the local community.
At the forefront of these efforts is Sub County Administrator Kiprotich Rono, who oversees the improvement of the local road network.
As machinery smooths the once-impassable murram road leading to Chebilat Hills Viewpoint, Rono underscores the role of access in promoting tourism.
“Tourism begins with access. If visitors cannot reach our sites, our beauty remains hidden,” he says. “We open Tindiret to the world by improving our roads.”
The County government prioritizes roads that connect waterfalls, forests, and scenic hills, while also serving farmers and traders. The Department of Infrastructure collaborates with local leaders to ensure year-round accessibility. Rono adds, “These roads do not only serve tourists; they support our people and invite investment into the sub county.”
Environmental conservation forms another pillar of Tindiret’s tourism strategy. At the edge of Kebeneti Forest, community scouts patrol restored walking trails and monitor wildlife. Lydia Chelagat, officer from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, coordinates the initiatives.
“We conserve what makes Tindiret unique,” she explains. “Our forests hold biodiversity, medicinal plants, and sacred spaces that must be protected even as we welcome visitors.”
Traditional knowledge guides conservation, with elders advising on the protection of sacred groves and ritual sites. Chelagat notes, “When elders are involved, conservation becomes a shared responsibility, not an external project.” Schools support the initiative through tree nurseries, teaching students the importance of environmental stewardship.
Culture and history also take centre stage in tourism promotion. Youth groups rehearse traditional dances and songs for cultural showcases, while Elder Samuel Kemei leads the revival of oral history and cultural practices.
“Our songs, our stories, and our rituals define who we are,” Kemei says. “Tourism gives us a reason to preserve them and pass them to the next generation.”
Historical landmarks, including memorial grounds and ancient rock caves, receive renewed attention. Trained local guides narrate the history of leadership, resistance, and community life. “When visitors understand our history, they respect our land and our people,” Kemei adds.
Private stakeholders also support tourism growth. Grace Too, a local entrepreneur, has invested in an eco-lodge overlooking the valley, offering guided hikes and traditional meals.
“Tourism gives our community dignity,” she says. “It creates income while allowing us to showcase our culture and environment.”
As these initiatives progress, Tindiret continues to attract researchers, domestic travellers, and cultural enthusiasts. Reflecting on the development, Rono emphasizes, “This journey is not only about attracting visitors. It is about preserving our heritage, empowering our people, and telling our story on our own terms.”
By Sammy Mwibanda
